What is Omicron?
OMICRON is the newest variant of SARS-CoV-2, whose infection has started spreading worldwide. The very first specimen of this variant was collected on the 9th of November 2021. It was reported as brand new coronavirus news to the World Health Organization by South Africa on 24th November 2021
Later, the Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution (TAG-VE) was convened about the new variant on 26th November 2021 to assess the omicron variant known as B.1.1.529.
After South Africa, the new mutation that is more transmissible than the previous ones has been detected in the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Australia, Hong Kong, and the Czech Republic.
Since the occurrence of the Omicron Variant, the world has started to react. Global authorities are taking preventive measures to keep their countries safe from this newfound mutation. For example, Israel has already begun banning all foreign flights flying into their country.
The European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America are no far less behind. They have also imposed similar restrictions on travellers flying into their countries. On the other hand researchers and doctors are working to determine if this mutation is vaccine-resistant.
What does a variant of concern mean?
The new covid variant has numerous mutations, this is an issue of enormous concern. Therefore the United Nations Public Health Body named this the “Variant of Concern”. Their statement was, “This variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning,” this means that this variant has the potential to give an adverse effect all over the world if not controlled while we have the time.
The World Health Organization also stated, “Based on the evidence presented indicative of a detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology, the TAG-VE has advised WHO that this variant should be designated as a VOC, and the WHO has designated B.1.1.529 as a VOC, named Omicron.”
As per the research, the scientists believe that this variant potentially has as many as 30 mutations in the COVID-19 spike protein, and the mutations can go as much as 50. This reflects how easily this virus can spread.
There’s a ray of hope, and it seems that the OMICRON variant is immune to vaccines. However, due to the same, there is havoc created among unvaccinated and partly vaccinated individuals. Irrespective, even the fully vaccinated individuals are not at peace, as this news isn’t confirmed yet.
Is this variant potentially more contagious than previous variants of the disease?
The new confirmed variant “Omicron” by the World Health Organization is considered to be highly transmissible. It also has an increased chance of relapse over already recovered COVID-19 patients due to approximately 30 different mutations. The newly developed mutations can easily sneak into the body cells, and it is known to be the most dangerous variant compared to other known variants.
Its impact and effects are yet anonymous and still being studied. Therefore, it is best to keep yourself protected and safe from the spread of this deadly virus. Ensure social distance is maintained, wear masks at public places, washing hands, and sanitize hands often during the day.
Experts recommend completing both your vaccination doses and getting a booster dose as well to keep yourself double protected.
What are the symptoms of the omicron variant?
The symptoms of the Omicron variant can be the same as the other variants, such as;
- Cold
- Cough
- Sore Throat
- Fever
- Headache
- Loss of taste and smell
These are not the confirmed symptoms for this variant. However, the biggest sign to detect the Omicron variant is to go through an RT-PCR test.
The experts say that COVID-19 may remain a viral ailment, and its symptoms will also remain the same. But the intensity of the illness may increase, and its transmissivity may also differ.
The intensity of the symptoms such as high body temperature, continuous cough, and loss of taste and smell may be heavier in this variant.
Will Omicron Variant Trigger Third Wave of Coronavirus in India?
The Omicron variant is highly dangerous, and almost every country is taking preventive measures to keep itself away from its repercussions. However, despite all, it is too soon to comment that Omicron is the beginning of the third wave, and it is our responsibility to not take it for granted and take full precautions and follow the COVID-19 norms and guidelines.
In Conclusion:-
COVID-19 must be strong, and its effects might be lethal. But hope prevails, and Ketto’s actions against COVID-19 are unstoppable.
COVID-19 in India infected approximately 26,031,991 people, and 291,365 lost their lives during this deadly disease’s first and second waves. Many unfortunate and unprivileged communities had to face many difficult situations because of the lockdown. The crisis was at its peak, and poverty was going out of control. All of this is taking over the misery of needful, unfortunates and unprivileged individuals. Ketto’s stepped in to help the community and survive the COVID-19 period. Ketto introduced thoughtful measures by Collaborating with NGOs and food banks. They collected funds to stop the COVID-19 pandemic, raised awareness of this virus, and saved lives with mission oxygen and much more.
It is a great honor to say that since the pandemic started, Ketto has managed to help corporates, individuals, and NGOs to raise ₹3,60,87,80,826 from a Target of ₹8,52,04,31,586 with the help 2,12,388 of Donors & 4,419 Fundraisers.
If you wish to experience the joy of giving and join hands with Ketto to make a difference in the lives of poor people like our watchmen, maid, sanitary workers, plumbers, and others. You can help them through Ketto and participate in making this world a better place for everyone.
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